The Ombudsman of the Republic of Vanuatu, Mr. Hamlison Bulu, accompanied by two officers from his Office, Mr. Joshua Allanson from the Annual return Team and Ms. Melissa Thompson from the Legal Team had the opportunity to meet with the Institutional Affairs Committee of Parliament. This special committee comprises with Members of Parliament representing both the Government and the Opposition, working collaboratively to address matters of institutional significance.

The purpose of the meeting was to provide the Committee with a comprehensive overview of the functions, achievements, legal framework, and operational challenges faced by the Office of the Ombudsman. Ombudsman Bulu also outlined the investigative powers conferred upon the Office and elaborated on the procedures involved in handling complaints.

The discussion proved to be both engaging and informative with the Committee members, raising pertinent questions regarding the submission of Annual Returns by Leaders and the standards of conduct prescribed under the Leadership Code Act.

The Chairman of IAC Hon. MP Robson Iavro acknowledged the value of this dialogue, noting its importance in reinforcing and strengthening the role of the Ombudsman as a Constitutional Office.

A formal report will be jointly prepared by the Office of the Ombudsman and the Institutional Affairs Committee, to be tabled during the Second Ordinary Session of Parliament. This initiative represents a significant step forward for the Ombudsman’s Office, which continues to face human resource constraints due to limited financial capacity.